L&Q launches 2017 Finance Graduate Training Programme
L&Q has re-launched its Finance Graduate Training Programme which pays for and supports university graduates to qualify as a chartered accountant.
The programme, which first launched in 2011, is unique to L&Q in the housing sector. Graduates are given the opportunity to train for their ACA (Associate Chartered Accountant) qualification whilst in full time employment on a competitive graduate salary.
They will train for three years, combining technical study and practical experience whilst working within L&Q’s Finance Department. The graduates are supported by trained supervisors, managers and mentors, and receive regular feedback and coaching.
This year’s recruitment process is open from now until 6th September 2017, with an assessment day for successful applicants on the 20th September. The programme is expected to officially start on 9th October 2017.
Terence Wong, Director of Financial Services at L&Q, commented:
“Our Graduate programme offers an exciting opportunity to achieve one of the most advanced learning and professional development programmes available in business and finance.
"With a mix of specialist placements within the finance team, assignments in the business and secondments to some of the top accountancy firms including the big 4; our programme aims to develop business leaders of the future equipped with the technical expertise and a qualification valued around the world.”
To apply for the programme, visit the ICAEW website.
Case study
Amy Gilham started the Finance Graduate Training Programme in 2011 and is now Head of Group Financial Reporting at L&Q. This is her story:
“I successfully applied for the Finance Graduate Training Programme in 2011, having previously worked as a Revenue Officer at L&Q.
“The programme was an amazing opportunity for me to begin a career in Finance. I had been looking for a similar scheme while working for L&Q since graduating, but I either hadn’t been successful or hadn’t found a company that I wanted to work with and study at the same time. When L&Q launched the scheme, I felt it was meant to be.
"I studied for my ACA for 3 years with the ICAEW (Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales). The scheme enabled me to have full-time study leave but expected high levels of commitment and success in exams.
"I became a fully qualified ACA in August 2013 and successfully in gained full time employment with L&Q as the Group Accountant.
"I progressed to Group Finance Manager in 2015 and also joined the Foundation Board. I was then nominated for and won “Best Newcomer in Housing Finance” in the NHF’s Housing Association Accountancy Awards.
"This year following L&Q’s merger I was promoted to Head of Group Financial Reporting as of 1st August 2017.
"I always look back and feel very lucky to have been successful to get onto the programme at L&Q; to complete my studies and exams and become a qualified accountant whilst developing myself and my career with the support and learning environment that we have here.
"If Accountancy and Finance is something that you’re interested in and you qualify for the entry requirements then this is definitely something you should consider applying for.”